Daily Routine on the Camino

The rhythm of life on the Camino is both grounding and transformative. It means going back to being simple, living in the moment, and having a reason to be. In this blog post, I’ll explain a typical day on the Camino, from the early mornings to the quiet evenings. If you know what to expect, you may feel more prepared, calm, and open to the magic that happens along the way. The Camino is more than just a path; it’s a way of life that you live one step at a time. Every journey is unique; take with you what resonates.

I usually get up early, before 6:00, when the sky is still dark. It’s nice to leave when the world is waking up. Tip: Pack your bag the night before to avoid noise when searching in the dark. Keep your torch or headlamp close by, but don’t use it too much. If your headlamp has a red light option, use it so others can sleep. I usually skip breakfast when I start walking. I might just have a protein bar or some yoghurt.

I stop for breakfast after walking for about two hours. You can have a quick coffee and tostada or tortilla at a bar. Some bars don’t open until after 8:00, but don’t worry, you’ll usually find more places to eat along the way. Tip: At these stops, take off your shoes and socks and let your feet breathe for a few minutes. Your socks dry out, and your feet can rest, which is the best way to avoid blisters. Every two hours, I usually take a short break. You can go to visit a church, have a coffee or a beer, and talk to other pilgrims. Don’t stay in one place for too long, or you won’t get to your destination on time.

Usually, pilgrims get to their daily destination early afternoon. In the summer, the temperature rises quickly after noon, so you should stay out of the sun after 14:00. Tip: If you choose to walk in the afternoon, make sure to fill up your water bottle, drink a lot of water, put on sunscreen often, and cover your head and arms. There are many fountains, so when I see one, I always soak my cap so it will cool my head for a few minutes.

It’s usually quite simple to check into an albergue. You show your ID and credentials, pick a bed, and then you can drop your backpack (not on the bed!). and take off your shoes (and leave them where they belong). Most albergues don’t open until around 14:00, but by that time, there might be a long queue of pilgrims waiting for beds. Tip: If you arrive early, you’ll get a comfy bed in a room away from the busy areas, like the entryway or the bathrooms. Once you’ve completed your chores (check-in, shower, and laundry), you can explore the town or village you’re staying in in the afternoon. Visit the church, sit in a sunny square with a cold drink, or just say hi to the other pilgrims who are arriving.

You will find places that offer a pilgrim menu for dinner, which is usually filling and a good deal, or you can share tapas with friends old and new. The Camino is calm at night. Some people go to a pilgrims’ mass or blessing. Some people write in their journals, talk quietly, or become ready for the next day’s stage. I prefer to be in bed shortly after 21:00, particularly when I am anticipating a lengthy stage. Most albergues have quiet hours after 22:00. This rhythm feels natural very quickly. Tip: Bring earplugs that are comfortable because – as you will see – snorers also walk the Camino.

The Camino is special because it’s quiet and has a calming routine that never gets old. You get stronger, more aware, and more in touch with nature, other people, and yourself every day. There is no need to hurry on the Camino. It’s about enjoying every moment, trusting the path, and letting the journey take its own beautiful course.

Buen Camino, your adventure is about to begin!